NYC IN PEAK WEST NILE SEASON: TEN HUMAN CASES INCLUDING ONE DEATH CONFIRMED SO FAR THIS SUMMER

West Nile Virus Continues to Pose Risk to New Yorkers;
Health Department Urges New Yorkers Over Age 50 to Protect Themselves from Mosquitoes Bites

NEW YORK CITY - September 14, 2006 - The Health Department announced today that there have been ten confirmed cases of West Nile virus (WNV) so far this year among New Yorkers, including one death, a 64-year old Staten Island man. The Department also warned that West Nile virus continues to pose a risk to New Yorkers this mosquito season. The Staten Island man became ill and died while on a trip to Tennessee, where WNV has been detected this year. Because he spent time in New York City and elsewhere during the two weeks before symptoms appeared, it is not possible to determine whether he was infected in the City or somewhere else. WNV has been detected in all five boroughs during recent weeks, with the greatest activity concentrated in Staten Island.

"With the arrival of the peak of West Nile virus season, we urge people over 50 - and especially those over 65 - to take extra protections because they are more susceptible to serious illness if infected by WNV," said Health Commissioner Dr. Thomas R. Frieden. "There are easy ways to protect yourself from West Nile virus. If you're going to be spending time outdoors, use an effective mosquito repellent and wear long sleeves, pants, and socks. Also, check that window and door screens in your home are secure and intact."

West Nile Virus Positive Results as of 9/14/06

To help stop the spread of WNV, DOHMH reminds New Yorkers to get rid of standing water on their property, and to report dead birds or standing water by calling 3-1-1 or logging on to www.nyc.gov/health/wnv.

DOHMH Recommendations to Reduce Exposure to Mosquitoes

Repair or replace all screens that have tears and holes.

Eliminate any standing water that collects on your property:

Dispose of containers that can collect standing water.

Make sure roof gutters drain properly and rooftops are free of standing water.

Clean and chlorinate swimming pools, outdoor saunas and hot tubs. Keep them empty and covered if not in use; drain water that collects in pool covers.

Vases are prohibited in cemeteries during West Nile virus season.

Use mosquito repellent when outdoors in areas where mosquitoes are active. Use repellents containing the active ingredients DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus that are approved by the U.S. EPA and New York State for protection against biting mosquitoes. Products containing oil of lemon eucalyptus should not be used on children younger than three. Always read the repellents label and follow instructions for use.

To report dead birds or standing water, or for more information about West Nile virus, call 311 or visit www.nyc.gov/health/wnv.